A murder-suicide in Limpopo has shocked the community of Bochabelo Village in Ga-Sekororo after Pitsi Malepe, a local businessman, allegedly shot and killed his wife and her relative before taking his own life on Sunday, 19 October 2025.
Authorities have described the incident as a domestic-related double murder-suicide.
According to reports, Pitsi Malepe posted a message on Facebook shortly before the shooting, writing:
“Rest in peace, my love. These are the works of you and your mother.”
The post quickly spread across social media, with friends and family expressing alarm over the message’s tone. Moments later, gunshots were heard at the couple’s home.
Police confirmed that Malepe allegedly shot his wife and her relative before killing himself. Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the motive for the shooting has not yet been confirmed, but early indications suggest it was related to ongoing domestic problems.
“The suspect is alleged to have fatally shot his wife and another female relative before turning the firearm on himself. Police investigations are continuing,” he said.
According to witnesses, after the shooting, Malepe left the scene briefly before returning in his MultiChoice-branded car.
In a video circulating online, he is seen speaking calmly while admitting to the killings and accusing his wife and mother-in-law of pushing him to the edge.
The footage also shows Malepe confronting police officers and bystanders, claiming law enforcement had damaged his vehicle and interfered in his business.
In the video, Malepe can be heard saying that he would take his own life next. Shortly after the recording was made, he reportedly shot himself.
The disturbing footage has since gone viral, drawing widespread outrage and renewed debate over the growing number of gender-based violence (GBV) cases in South Africa.
This case follows several recent incidents in which men have killed their partners and then posted confessions online.
In August, Gauteng resident Kgaugelo Marota was fatally stabbed by her boyfriend, who later confessed on Facebook.
Similarly, in December 2024, a man identified as Sibusiso Lawrence went viral after sharing a video of himself admitting to killing his ex-girlfriend in Scottburgh, KwaZulu-Natal.
Authorities have warned that such cases point to a troubling rise in intimate partner violence and the use of social media to justify or broadcast acts of brutality. Police have urged the public to report warning signs and seek intervention before conflicts turn deadly.
If you or someone you know needs help or someone to talk to, please reach out to one of the following helplines. The Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) offers a 24/7 toll-free helpline at 0800 428 428 and an SMS option by dialling *120*7867#. The National Crisis Helpline (Lifeline South Africa) provides counselling and support at 0861 322 322. In cases of immediate danger, you can contact the South African Police Service (SAPS) by calling 10111. For children experiencing or witnessing abuse, Childline South Africa is available toll-free at 0800 055 555. Survivors of sexual abuse and gender-based violence can also contact the Tears Foundation by calling 010 590 5920 or sending an SMS with the word “HELP” to 35858. Remember, you are not alone, and support is always available to help you through difficult times.
